Entering school age, children must read throughout the day, starting from when they are at school until they are studying at home. So it is not surprising that children will refuse to read traditional textbooks again at home, especially if reading is difficult for them. Although reading has many benefits for children, such as increasing knowledge and developing vocabulary, know that children do not always have to read traditional books to build reading skills and get these benefits. The following are some ways to train children’s reading skills apart from books.
- Deliver comic books and graphic novels
Comic books and graphic novels have more illustrations. Despite the many pictures, there are also a lot of words used to bring the story together. If your child has difficulty reading, the pictures and graphics make it easy for him to follow the flow well. Plus the text is broken up into smaller parts. In addition, comics and graphic novels also entertain children who are tired after studying. Comics and graphic novels also offer lots of reading and imagination-building exercises which are great for schoolchildren too.
- Make use of social media and websites
Kids who like to spend time on social media already read a lot. But unfortunately, many irresponsible social media users can be bad examples for children. So, it is important that you turn this interest into a more rewarding and enjoyable task. But make sure you also limit the screen time or screen time of the child. Using gadgets excessively can increase the risk of disease disorders until important activities are neglected.
- Cooking while practicing reading
If your child likes cooking and food, you can help the child have fun with this activity. Create a cooking routine together and read a few recipes for ideas. You can also ask children, research online menus to make the ideal menu for breakfast to dinner menus.
- Reading magazines
Children who refuse to read traditional books may be less wary of shorter reading formats. If newspapers are too heavy for readers, you can start with magazines. To start this habit, you and your child can read a magazine every day. This magazine can be tailored to the interests of children. You can also read several passages in turn with the child. you and your child can also collect new news to share.
- Reading brochures
You may not think that this paper, which is sometimes thrown away, can have many benefits for children, especially in terms of reading practice. The information is provided through a combination of text, images, and often other visual tools such as tables and maps. Brochures also have careful wording to grab the reader’s attention and emphasize important information. When children read brochures, they practice the ability to scan for specific details. Reading brochures requires children to use all comprehension strategies they have for narrative and informational reading.
- Download audio books or digital books
Listening to audio books and reading digital books are as valuable to children as reading traditional books. If your child tends to like technology, download some audio books. The difference in the format can already attract the attention of children to try it. Listening to audio books can also increase a child’s curiosity about the original book, because he may be interested in seeing how the illustrations really look or have his own way of reading the book.